It's now abundantly clear that depression is a serious and debilitating medical illness. Going through a list like that above can be helpful for anyone trying to understand what's happening, whether it be family members or managers at work.

Mental illness can take shape in many different forms. One of those forms looks a lot like a big black blob. It's vast, it's life-altering, it's suffocating, and its name is Depression.

In any case, don't give up on your friends with mental illness. Love, compassion, understanding, empathy, and nudging them to get in touch with their doctor would all be inordinately helpful!

Success often depends on our ability to present a socially acceptable image. Ideally, our social image aligns with our authentic self or essence.